Around Rochester Minnesota

Photo: Tom Fisk With its charming downtown, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural surroundings, this city has something for everyone.  Here are our  top 10 picks for things to do  during your weekend in Rochester, Minnesota. Visit the Mayo Clinic A visit to Rochester wouldn't be complete without stopping by the world-renowned Mayo Clinic. Take a guided tour of the facility or explore the fascinating exhibits at the Mayo Clinic Heritage Hall. Stroll through the Rochester Farmers Market Pick up some fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts at the Rochester Farmers Market, open every Saturday from May to October. Explore the Quarry Hill Nature Center Get back to nature at the Quarry Hill Nature Center, where you can hike scenic trails, observe wildlife, and learn about the natural history of the region. Catch a show at the Rochester Civic Theatre Enjoy live theatre, music, and dance performances at the Rochester Civic Theatre, a beloved community institution since 1951

Spam® Museum - Austin Minnesota  The Hormel Foods SPAM museum, one of downtown Austin, Minnesota's best-kept secrets, just 45 minutes southwest of Rochester. If you're looking for a fun and educational day trip for your family, this museum is a perfect getaway. The museum is now open, and visitors can check the website for COVID guidelines. The Hormel museum spans over 14,000 square feet and features numerous interactive installations and hands-on exhibits chronicling the company's humble beginnings to their current status as a global market leader. You and your family can explore the World War II-themed exhibit and learn about the fascinating history of the company. One of the museum's highlights is its dedicated Kid Zone, which is perfect for children aged two and above. The Kid Zone offers interactive exhibits, games, videos, and hands-on activities that will keep your little ones engaged and entertained. The best part is that admission to the museum is free, making

Winter things to do in Rochester, Minnesota | Snow Tubing at Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch – Stewartville, Minnesota The Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch is located in Stewartville, Minnesota approx. 20 mins. (14mi.) south of Rochester. It is a fun local place for visitors to enjoy activities during the winter months. It is open for snow tubing during January and February (exact dates are listed below).  Calendar/Hours: Hours vary week by week during winter months  Call 507-533-4315 for times date/times. Cost (prices are subject to change):  $12 per person (all ages) $ Discounts for larger groups. $50 deposit required in advance call 507-533-4315 to reserve space Payment: Either cash or check. Payment is collected before tubing. Equipment: Tubes are provided. Visitors have access to the warming house and towrope. Pots of hot water are also available to warm up soups, cocoa, and warm clothes.  Misc:  Ironwood is alcohol and tobacco-free. No pets are allowed. Contact: Ironwood

The Minneapolis Institute of Art   Now that the chilly weather has arrived (of this post, it is 9 degrees outside, burr) there's no better time than to find fun and interesting things to do inside. Especially whens it's FREE! The Minneapolis Institute of Art hosts a plethora of extraordinary exhibitions and one of the largest and wide ranging art collections in the country. Spanning subjects and artists such as: van Gogh, Rembrandt, Matisse and artifacts from every continent; Asian to Africa.  One can easily spend over half a day here. Brief History of the Minneapolis Institute of Art: Founded by 25 Minneapolis residents in 1883 (then name the Minneapolis Society of Fine Arts) The museum was designed by New York architectural firm McKim, Mead and White. The museum includes the Target Wing: includes thirty-four galleries, exhibition space, lecture hall, photographs study room, and an art research library. MIA hosts over 800 works of art to more